No Labels is a political organization that opposes what it calls the "extremes" in both the Democratic and Republican Parties.
Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia and former Utah Gov. Jon Huntsman spoke on behalf of No Labels at the event in New Hampshire on Monday, discussing the group's bipartisan ideals and solutions to America's challenges.
"No Labels was built on the belief that our nation's strength lies not in rigidly adhering to the demands of either political party, but in our ability to converse, discuss, and even disagree constructively in search of putting the country first," the group said in a statement.
Manchin, who has often crossed party lines while serving in the Senate, said the nation is lacking discussion on common sense solutions to its problems.
"It is clear that most Americans are exceedingly frustrated by the growing divide in our political parties and toxic political rhetoric from our elected leaders," said Manchin in a press release.
No Labels claims it is not a third party. Instead, the group claims it is "creating a powerful force capable of countering the influence of the extremes on both sides."
There's been speculation in Washington that the group could propose an alternative ticket in the 2024 presidential election. The proposition has sparked heated debate about potential spoilers in the race.
Manchin and Huntsman declined to answer if they could form a potential White House ticket, but they said that the country needs more choices. Manchin said if he did run, it wouldn't be as a spoiler.
🧵THREAD 2/x@Sen_JoeManchin says he "hasn't made a decision" on entering the 2024 presidential race.
"I've never been in any race I've ever spoiled. I've been in races to win." pic.twitter.com/FXMMoWO4U8
— Scripps News (@scrippsnews) July 17, 2023
Manchin and Huntsman spoke Monday on the effects of foreign disinformation, issues of U.S. electoral practices, energy policy, the national debt and campaign finance.
Manchin and Huntsman called for greater transparency from political groups about their campaign donations.
"It's just the norm with 501(c)(4) organizations," Huntsman said. "I don't think it's right or good. I think there should be transparency and accountability in all things. But that's not the way people play the game."
Scripps News political correspondent Kevin Cirilli led the discussion during Monday's town hall.
Scripps news does not endorse candidates or political movements in any way.
SEE MORE: No Labels to unveil 2024 platform; presidential bid remains uncertain
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